Guardiola added: “Never in his career has he been aggressive. I don't want Aguero to run behind the central defenders, I don't want Aguero to jump higher than the other strikers - they're taller than him.

“I'm talking about he has to feel how important he is for us. When he's happy of course all the team is happy.”

Guardiola admitted he thanked his main striker at The Hawthorns after his brace helped end a worrying run of results for City.

“I said to him thank you,” said the Spaniard. “We need him. Without him we cannot achieve our target, it is impossible.”

Meanwhile, West Brom midfielder Chris Brunt defended Darren Fletcher and Jonas Olsson after they were booed off when they were substituted.

Both were at fault in the build-up to Aguero's second goal, which made it 2-0.

Brunt was victim of the Albion boo boys last season and said: “I’ve got experience in it.

“When you’re on the pitch it’s not something you overly notice.

“Fletcher’s done a good job and played pretty much every match since he’s came to the club.

“It was a difficult game and I don’t think anybody can say they had a good one.

“But the fans pay their money and have the right to vent their frustrations and the right to their opinion.

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“The effect it has on the team is negative. You need everyone to be pulling in the same direction.

“We’re as frustrated as anybody the game didn't go our way.

“I don’t think it’s on to single out individuals for extra criticism.

“For players like Jonas and Darren, experienced pros who have given a lot to this club - Jonas over a long period of time and Fletcher in the last 18 months - and the careers they’ve had, it’s disappointing to see.

“They’re both strong characters and I’m sure they won’t let it affect them.”